A significant fire has led to the destruction of the Oxbow Bridge in Cibola, a vital route for residents traveling to Yuma. The wooden structure collapsed after flames engulfed the area, affecting at least five acres of land.
Local resident Carissa Rosenfeld, who is part of the Friends of Cibola National Wildlife Refuge, expressed the disruption this causes, stating it adds roughly 20 minutes to travel time for essential trips, such as grocery shopping and visiting family. The incident not only impacts time but has also raised concerns about safety, as debris from the bridge is now floating in the river, posing hazards to boaters and those who enjoy relaxing on the water.
County officials are actively pursuing state emergency funding to assist in recovery efforts. La Paz County Supervisor Holly Irwin mentioned the importance of acquiring funds for cleanup and the removal of debris, emphasizing the urgency of enhancing safety measures in the area. One immediate priority is the installation of buoys across the river to alert boaters to potential dangers.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and until the Oxbow Bridge is reconstructed, residents will continue to face detours and delays.
The incident underscores the ongoing need for infrastructure resilience and safety in the region. As recovery efforts commence, there remains hope among the community that state support will expedite the restoration process and help mitigate further disruptions.